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2024/2025 NNL Season: Coach Ganiyu’s Tactical Brilliance Saves First Bank FC from Relegation

Posted : 17 June 2025

In one of the most inspiring comebacks of the 2024/2025 Nigeria National League (NNL) season, First Bank FC, also known as the Elephant Boys, secured their league status on the final day—thanks to the tactical genius of newly appointed coach, Hakeem Taiwo Ganiyu.

Ganiyu took over the team at the beginning of the second stanza and made an immediate impact. His first game in charge, on April 4, 2025, ended in a 2-1 victory over Godswill Akpabio United, signaling the beginning of a new chapter.

Despite suffering a 3-1 defeat to Osun United on the final day of the season (June 14, 2025), the damage had already been undone by a string of solid performances. Ganiyu implemented a high-pressing style that reinvigorated a team that had previously struggled.

When he assumed control, First Bank FC sat second-to-last on the Conference B log with just 10 points from 10 games (3 wins, 1 draw, 6 losses), scoring 5 goals and conceding 11.

Under Ganiyu’s leadership, the club recorded: 4 wins (including 1 away), 2 draws, and 4 losses, scoring 12 goals and conceding 15.

This upturn in form lifted them to 8th place with 24 points, narrowly avoiding relegation.

In contrast, Abakaliki United and Madiba FC both finished with 23 points, while Gateway United dropped with 22 points.

Coach Ganiyu brings with him a wealth of experience and credentials, including: A Diploma in Coaching and Training from the National Institute for Sports (NIS) – 2007, CAF Licence C – 2011, CAF Licence B – 2015, CAF Licence A – the highest certification from the Confederation of African Football.

“The second stanza was about belief, discipline, and fight,” Ganiyu said. “We were tagged relegation candidates, but the boys showed character.”

Looking ahead, Ganiyu plans to strengthen the squad with fresh talent and set sights on guiding First Bank FC to the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL).

For the fans and management, survival this season feels like winning a trophy—and Coach Ganiyu is already laying the foundation for bigger goals in 2026.

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